Voters in Miami have elected Eileen Higgins as the city’s first Democratic mayor in nearly 30 years, marking a significant shift in local political dynamics. On December 9, 2025, Higgins, a county commissioner, defeated former city manager Emilio González with approximately 59 percent of the vote compared to González’s 41 percent, according to preliminary results. This election not only ended a long-standing Republican hold on the mayoral office but also made Higgins the first woman ever to hold the position.
Higgins’ victory is particularly noteworthy given that Miami has not elected a Democrat to the mayoral office since 1997. The runoff election, the city’s first since 2001, attracted considerable national attention, highlighting its significance beyond local politics. Higgins framed her win as a response to both community concerns and a broader discontent with the current political climate.
“We are facing rhetoric from elected officials that is so dehumanizing and cruel, especially against immigrant populations,” Higgins stated in her victory speech, as reported by the Associated Press. “The residents of Miami were ready to be done with that.”
The campaign saw an influx of support for González from prominent national figures, including an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised González’s record in federal immigration leadership and urged voters to support him, stating he would “fight tirelessly to Grow the Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations.” Trump had previously carried Miami-Dade County by 11 points in the 2024 election, although his opponent, Kamala Harris, narrowly won the city of Miami itself.
Despite the national focus on the race, Higgins centered her campaign on pressing local issues such as housing affordability, transportation, climate resilience, and government transparency. Her ability to resonate with voters on these themes became evident as she led a crowded field of 13 candidates in the initial round of voting held in November.
Political Implications of Higgins’ Victory
Political analysts have pointed out that while the mayor of Miami has limited executive power, Higgins’ election signifies a rare Democratic victory in a city dominated by Republicans for decades. The outcome stands out in the broader context of the 2025 off-year elections, where Democrats achieved notable successes, including the election of Zohran Mamdani as mayor of New York City and decisive gubernatorial wins in Virginia and New Jersey.
Following the election, Hakeem Jeffries, House Minority Leader, highlighted the significance of Higgins’ win on social media, stating, “No Democrat has been elected Mayor of Miami in nearly 30 years. Until tonight. Congratulations to Mayor-elect Eileen Higgins on crushing Donald Trump’s candidate! We are coming for the three South Florida Republicans next.”
While the political landscape in Miami remains complex, Higgins’ victory could signal shifting voter sentiment in a city that has often leaned Republican. The implications of this change will likely be observed closely as the Democratic Party prepares for the upcoming midterm elections.
As Miami begins a new chapter under Higgins’ leadership, her administration will be tasked with addressing the many challenges facing the city. Residents appear hopeful for a more inclusive and responsive governance that reflects their values and priorities.
